Sessional Lecturer, INF2164H - UX Research and Design for Video Games

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sessional Lecturer, INF2164H - UX Research and Design for Video Games
Company: University of Toronto
Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Job Type: Sessional, Contract
Category: Higher Education / UX Design & Research
Date Posted: May 08, 2026
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years implied)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This sessional lecturer role focuses on delivering specialized instruction in User Experience (UX) Research and Design specifically within the video game industry.
• The position involves comprehensive curriculum development, content delivery, and student assessment for the INF2164H course at the Faculty of Information.
• Responsibilities include applying core UX research methods to video game analysis, heuristic evaluation, usability testing, and challenge testing.
• A key aspect of the role is integrating themes of inclusivity, accessibility, and universal game design into the course curriculum, reflecting current industry standards and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data does not explicitly state "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations," the detailed focus on process evaluation, user experience, and structured delivery of content aligns with operational principles. The role requires a systematic approach to curriculum design and student assessment, mirroring the process-oriented nature of operations roles. The implied experience level of 5-10 years and the need for specialized knowledge suggest a role that requires significant domain expertise and the ability to structure and deliver complex information effectively, akin to a senior operations professional leading a specific initiative.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and prepare comprehensive course materials, including lectures, seminars, lab exercises, and supplementary resources for INF2164H.
• Deliver engaging and informative course content, facilitating student understanding of UX research and design principles in the context of video games.
• Design, administer, and grade course assignments, tests, and examinations, ensuring alignment with learning objectives and industry relevance.
• Conduct regular office hours to provide student support, guidance, and feedback on their academic progress and project work.
• Facilitate practical application of UX concepts through video game analysis, heuristic evaluations, usability testing, and challenge testing exercises using industry-standard tools.
• Integrate and emphasize principles of inclusivity, accessibility, and universal design throughout the course curriculum and practical exercises.
• Stay current with key trends and developments in the video game industry and UX field to ensure course content remains relevant and forward-looking.
• Collaborate with the Faculty of Information to ensure the course meets academic standards and contributes to the overall program objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for deep subject matter expertise, pedagogical skills, and a structured approach to content delivery and evaluation. This mirrors the operational requirement of maintaining high standards, ensuring process adherence, and driving outcomes within a defined framework. The emphasis on practical application and industry relevance suggests a focus on actionable insights and measurable results, core to operational excellence.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• PhD degree in a field related to UX Research, Game Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Information Science, or a closely related discipline is preferred.
• Alternatively, a Master's degree in a relevant field, combined with extensive professional experience in UX Research, UX Design, or the Video Game Industry.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in User Experience (UX) Research and/or UX Design, with a strong emphasis on application within the video game industry.
• Proven experience in academic instruction, lecturing, or curriculum development at the university or college level is preferred.
• Experience in conducting and analyzing UX research methods such as usability testing, heuristic evaluation, and user interviews.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in User Experience (UX) Research methodologies and principles.
• Proficiency in User Experience (UX) Design, including interface design and user flow creation.
• Strong analytical skills for video game analysis and evaluating interactive systems.
• Familiarity with heuristic evaluation techniques and their application to video games.
• Experience with usability testing and appreciation/challenge testing methodologies.
• Knowledge of inclusivity and accessibility principles in design.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to develop and deliver engaging educational content.

Preferred Skills:

• Direct experience in the video game development lifecycle.
• Familiarity with industry-standard UX research and design tools (e.g., user testing platforms, prototyping software).
• Understanding of game design principles and mechanics.
• Experience with curriculum design and academic assessment.
• Knowledge of current trends and innovations in the video game industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of academic rigor and practical, industry-specific experience. This combination is crucial for roles that require not only theoretical knowledge but also the ability to translate that knowledge into actionable insights and effective processes, a hallmark of strong operations professionals. The preference for teaching experience suggests a need for clear communication and the ability to structure complex information, which is transferable to operational training and process documentation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of applied UX Research methodologies within a project context, showcasing data collection, analysis, and insight generation.
• Examples of UX Design work, including wireframes, prototypes, user flows, and final interface designs for interactive systems.
• Case studies detailing the process of conducting heuristic evaluations or usability tests on video games or similar interactive media, including findings and recommendations.
• Evidence of integrating accessibility and inclusivity considerations into the design and research process.
• Documentation of how user feedback was incorporated to iterate and improve designs or research outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to clearly document the UX research and design process undertaken for projects, outlining methodologies, tools used, and key decision points.
• Structured approach to presenting research findings and design recommendations in a clear, concise, and actionable format suitable for various stakeholders.
• Experience in detailing the steps involved in setting up and conducting user testing sessions, from recruitment to debriefing.
• Documentation of how accessibility standards were assessed and addressed within a given project.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is an academic role, the emphasis on a "portfolio" and "process documentation" directly aligns with operations expectations. Operations professionals are often required to demonstrate their ability to manage projects, document processes, and showcase tangible results through case studies or portfolios. The focus on systematic evaluation and iterative improvement mirrors operational best practices.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Sessional Lecturer I: CAD $10,889
• Sessional Lecturer I Long Term: CAD $11,652
• Sessional Lecturer II: CAD $11,652
• Sessional Lecturer II Long Term: CAD $11,924
• Sessional Lecturer III: CAD $11,924
• Sessional Lecturer III Long Term: CAD $12,202

Note: Rates are subject to collective agreement variations, where the collective agreement rates shall prevail.

Benefits:

• As per the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 Collective Agreement, sessional lecturers are entitled to certain benefits. Specific details would be outlined in the collective agreement, but typically may include:
  • Health and dental benefits (often contributions or access to a plan).
  • Access to university resources and facilities.
  • Pension plan contributions (if applicable and eligible).
  • Professional development opportunities.
  • Access to the university library and academic resources.

Working Hours:

• The role is sessional, with an estimated 75 hours of work allocated for a course of 36 or more students, though TA support is not anticipated for this specific course.
• Actual hours will depend on course enrollment and the specific demands of preparing and delivering content, grading, and holding office hours.
• The Sessional dates of appointment are January 1, 2027 - April 30, 2027.
• Lecturers are required to be located in geographical proximity to the University premises for on-site duties.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary structure for sessional lecturers is tiered, reflecting experience and tenure within the university system. This tiered approach is analogous to career progression in operations, where increased responsibility and proven expertise lead to higher compensation bands. The "75 hours" estimate for a course provides a benchmark for workload expectations, similar to how operations roles might have project-based time allocations or key performance indicators tied to output. The requirement for on-site presence aligns with a traditional operational setting.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education / Technology / Information Science
Company Size: Large (University of Toronto is one of Canada's largest universities with tens of thousands of employees and students across multiple campuses).
Founded: 1827 (The University of Toronto has a long and distinguished history, fostering a culture of academic excellence, research, and innovation).

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Faculty of Information (iSchool) at the University of Toronto.
• The iSchool is a multidisciplinary faculty focused on information studies, data science, UX design, and related fields.
• Lecturers operate with a degree of autonomy in course delivery but are part of a larger academic department structure.
• Collaboration occurs with program coordinators, other faculty members, and administrative staff.

Methodology:

• The Faculty of Information emphasizes a research-driven and practice-oriented approach to education.
• Instruction often involves a blend of theoretical foundations, practical application, and critical analysis.
• Data-driven insights are crucial for both academic research and informing course content, particularly in fields like UX and data science.
• Emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and the application of information principles across various domains.

Company Website: https://www.utoronto.ca/ and https://ischool.utoronto.ca/

📝 Enhancement Note: The University of Toronto's culture is deeply rooted in academic rigor, research excellence, and a commitment to advancing knowledge. For operations professionals, this translates to an environment that values data-informed decision-making, systematic problem-solving, and continuous improvement. The Faculty of Information, in particular, fosters a forward-thinking approach to technology and information management, aligning with the evolving landscape of operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: While this is a sessional lecturing role, the implied experience level (5-10 years) and the tiered salary structure (Sessional Lecturer I-III) suggest a mid-to-senior level of expertise in the subject matter. The role requires the ability to independently manage and deliver a course at a graduate level.

Reporting Structure:

• The Sessional Lecturer reports to the Faculty of Information's program director or relevant academic administrator for course-related matters.
• Administrative support is provided by individuals like Nafiseh Yazdian, the Administrative Coordinator.

Operations Impact:

• The "operations impact" in this context is primarily educational: shaping the next generation of UX professionals and contributing to the knowledge base in UX research and design for video games.
• The lecturer's expertise directly influences student learning outcomes, their preparedness for the job market, and their ability to innovate within the UX and gaming industries.
• Successful course delivery contributes to the Faculty's reputation and its ability to attract top talent.

Growth Opportunities:

• Academic Progression: Potential to advance through the sessional lecturer ranks (I, II, III) based on experience, performance, and course assignments.
• Curriculum Development: Opportunities to propose new courses or revise existing ones, contributing to the strategic direction of the Faculty's offerings.
• Research & Publication: While not a primary function of this role, the academic environment offers opportunities to engage in research, potentially leading to publications or presentations.
• Networking: Building connections with faculty, students, and industry professionals within the vibrant iSchool and gaming communities.
• Mentorship: Guiding students and potentially junior lecturers, developing leadership and mentorship skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path in this academic role is defined by progression through lecturer tiers and involvement in curriculum strategy, mirroring how operations professionals advance through seniority, specialization, or leadership roles. The emphasis on mentorship and knowledge transfer is a common thread in both academic and advanced operations settings.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: University Campus Environment
Office Location(s): University of Toronto, Faculty of Information, 140 St. George Street, Toronto, ON. The role requires on-site presence.

Workspace Context:

• The lecturer will have access to university facilities, including potentially teaching spaces (classrooms, labs), office space for preparation and meetings, and library resources.
• The environment is academic, with a focus on learning, research, and intellectual exchange.
• Collaboration with faculty and administrative staff will occur within this professional setting.
• Access to relevant software and technology for course delivery and student support will be provided or expected.

Work Schedule:

• The sessional appointment runs from January 1, 2027, to April 30, 2027.
• Specific class schedules (lectures, seminars, labs) will be determined but will occur during the Winter Term 2027.
• Lecturers are expected to be available for office hours and to dedicate time for course preparation and grading outside of scheduled class times.
• While there's a defined appointment period, the workload is project-based (course-specific) rather than a standard 9-to-5.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and the structured academic environment are key differentiators from remote operations roles. However, the need for self-management, effective time allocation for tasks (preparation, grading, office hours), and utilizing available resources are common operational challenges and practices.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit a CV and a completed CUPE 3902 Unit 3 application form as a single PDF to sessional.ischool@utoronto.ca.
• Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed based on qualifications (education, experience, teaching preference).
• Shortlisting: Qualified candidates will be shortlisted.
• Interview/Selection: Candidates may be invited for an interview, which could involve discussing their teaching philosophy, approach to UX in games, and how they would structure/deliver the course.
• Preference: Preference is given to qualified individuals already advanced to Sessional Lecturer II and III ranks, as per Article 14:12 of the collective agreement.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Ensure your CV highlights relevant academic credentials, teaching experience, research in UX/game design, and professional experience in the industry. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Application Form: Complete the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 application form thoroughly and accurately.
• Portfolio Content: If a portfolio is requested or can be submitted (though not explicitly mentioned as required, it's good practice for UX roles), ensure it showcases:
  • Concrete examples of UX research projects (methodology, findings, impact).
  • UX design work demonstrating problem-solving and user-centered thinking.
  • Specific examples of applying UX to video games, if available.
  • Evidence of teaching materials or curriculum development if you have prior experience.
• Tailoring: Highlight experience and skills directly relevant to "UX Research and Design for Video Games," including inclusivity and accessibility.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to teaching complex topics like UX research and design.
• Think about how you would structure the INF2164H course, including potential assignments, projects, and learning objectives.
• Consider how you would address the specific challenges of applying UX principles to the unique domain of video games.
• Be ready to discuss your views on inclusivity and accessibility in game design and how you would impart these concepts to students.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a formal academic structure and adherence to a collective agreement. For operations applicants, the key takeaway is the need for meticulous attention to detail in documentation (CV, application form) and the ability to clearly articulate one's skills and experience in a way that demonstrates competence and suitability for the specific role. The preference for higher ranks suggests that demonstrating advanced expertise and prior success is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools (Implied/Expected for UX Practice):

• Prototyping Software: Tools like Figma, Adobe XD, Sketch, or InVision for creating wireframes and interactive prototypes.
• User Research Platforms: Platforms for conducting remote usability testing, surveys, and interviews (e.g., UserTesting.com, SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics, Lookback).
• Game Analysis Tools: While not specific software, this involves analytical frameworks and potentially tools for gameplay recording and observation.
• Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator) for asset creation and visual design elements.

Analytics & Reporting (for UX Research):

• Spreadsheet Software: Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for data organization and basic analysis of qualitative and quantitative data.
• Statistical Software (Optional): SPSS, R, or Python with relevant libraries (e.g., Pandas, SciPy) for more advanced statistical analysis of research data.
• Data Visualization Tools: Tableau, Power BI, or even advanced Excel/Google Sheets features for presenting research findings.

CRM & Automation (Less Direct Relevance, but related to UX context):

• While not directly used by the lecturer, understanding how UX research and design inform CRM systems or automated user journeys could be a bonus. This might include familiarity with how user data from games or platforms is managed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is centered around UX design and research software. For operations professionals, this highlights the importance of specifying the exact tools used in the job description. Even in academic settings, proficiency with industry-standard tools is expected for practical application. This section implies a need for hands-on experience with tools that facilitate user-centered design and rigorous research.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values (as applied to an academic context):

• Academic Excellence: A commitment to high standards in teaching, research, and student learning.
• Inclusivity & Accessibility: Championing the creation of games and learning environments that are accessible and welcoming to all.
• Data-Driven Inquiry: Using research and analysis to understand user behavior, game design effectiveness, and learning outcomes.
• Innovation: Encouraging new approaches to UX design, game development, and educational methodologies.
• Collaboration: Fostering a supportive environment for students and faculty to share knowledge and work together.

Collaboration Style:

• Student-Centric: Prioritizing student learning and development through effective instruction and support.
• Peer Collaboration: Engaging with other faculty members and administrative staff to enhance the program and share best practices.
• Feedback Integration: Openness to feedback from students and peers to improve course content and delivery.
• Cross-Disciplinary Engagement: Connecting UX principles to broader information science, technology, and design fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "values" in an academic setting translate to a commitment to knowledge, learning, and the ethical application of principles (like inclusivity). For operations, this translates to a focus on process integrity, continuous improvement, and stakeholder satisfaction. The collaborative style is essential for any team-driven environment, including operations teams that work across departments.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Theory and Practice: Effectively translating complex UX theories and research methods into practical, actionable skills for students in the context of video games.
• Keeping Pace with Industry: The video game industry and UX field are rapidly evolving; staying current with trends, tools, and best practices requires continuous learning.
• Diverse Student Backgrounds: Managing a classroom with students from varying academic and professional backgrounds, each with different levels of prior knowledge in UX and gaming.
• Accessibility & Inclusivity: Effectively demonstrating and embedding principles of accessibility and inclusivity in a domain that has historically faced challenges in these areas.
• Limited TA Support: Potentially managing all grading and student feedback independently, which can be demanding for a course with 35 students.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepening Expertise: Opportunity to focus intensely on UX for games, potentially leading to specialized knowledge and future research.
• Pedagogical Skill Development: Enhancing teaching methodologies, curriculum design, and classroom management techniques.
• Industry Engagement: Staying connected to the video game industry through course content, student projects, and potential networking opportunities.
• Academic Community: Engaging with a vibrant academic community at the University of Toronto, fostering intellectual growth and potential research collaborations.
• Mentorship: Gaining experience in mentoring students and guiding their professional development in UX and game design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are common in specialized roles that require bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application and keeping up with rapid industry changes. For operations, these translate to challenges in process implementation, technology adoption, and stakeholder management. The growth opportunities highlight continuous learning and skill enhancement, which are critical for career longevity in any field, including operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Teaching Philosophy: "Describe your teaching philosophy, particularly as it applies to a technical and creative field like UX design for video games."
  • Preparation: Focus on student-centered learning, hands-on application, and fostering critical thinking.
• Course Structure: "How would you structure the INF2164H course to best cover UX research and design principles for video games, considering the specified themes of inclusivity and accessibility?"
  • Preparation: Outline key modules, potential assignments (e.g., game analysis, heuristic evaluation, usability test design), and how you'd integrate the core themes.
• Industry Relevance: "How do you ensure your course content remains relevant to the fast-paced video game industry?"
  • Preparation: Discuss methods for staying current, using case studies, and encouraging student exploration of industry trends.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Faculty of Information's Mission: "What interests you about the University of Toronto's Faculty of Information and its approach to UX/Information Studies?"
  • Preparation: Research the Faculty's mission, values, and recent work. Align your interests with their academic and research focus.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: "How do you see UX research and design for video games fitting into the broader scope of Information Studies?"
  • Preparation: Connect UX principles to information architecture, user data, and the impact of interactive media.
• Inclusivity & Accessibility: "What is your perspective on the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in video game design, and how would you convey this to students?"
  • Preparation: Be ready to discuss specific examples and strategies for designing for diverse audiences.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• CV Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through your CV, highlighting experiences most relevant to teaching UX and game design.
• Case Study Presentation (if applicable): If you have a portfolio, select 1-2 key projects that best demonstrate your UX research and design skills, particularly those related to interactive media or games. Focus on:
  • Problem: What was the user or business problem?
  • Process: What UX methods did you employ and why?
  • Solution: What was your design or research outcome?
  • Impact: What was the result or learning from your work?
• Teaching Examples: If you have prior teaching experience, be ready to share examples of assignments you've created or teaching strategies you've used.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role emphasizes pedagogical skills, subject matter expertise, and an understanding of the university's academic context. For operations candidates, the parallels lie in demonstrating process knowledge, strategic thinking, and the ability to articulate solutions and impacts clearly, often through case studies.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this sessional lecturer position:

• Review Collective Agreement: Familiarize yourself with the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 Collective Agreement, particularly regarding sessional lecturer appointments and preferences (Article 14:12).
• Prepare Application Materials:
  • CV: Update your Curriculum Vitae to highlight academic achievements, teaching experience, relevant UX research and design expertise, and any video game industry involvement. Quantify accomplishments where possible.
  • Application Form: Download and accurately complete the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 application form. Ensure all sections are filled out thoroughly.
• Combine into PDF: Create a single PDF document containing your CV and the completed application form.
• Submit Application: Email the PDF to Nafiseh Yazdian at sessional.ischool@utoronto.ca by the application deadline of June 1, 2026.
• Research the Course: Review the course description for INF2164H on the Faculty of Information website to fully understand its scope and objectives.
• Prepare for Interview: Anticipate potential interview questions about your teaching philosophy, UX expertise, and approach to course delivery, as outlined in the "Interview Preparation" section.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.